Former NHL player Joe Pavelski secured a decisive victory at the American Century Championship on July 16, 2023, held at Edgewood Tahoe. Pavelski, who celebrated his 41st birthday just days prior, finished the tournament with an impressive 29-point round under the modified Stableford scoring system, bringing his total to 73 points. He outperformed former Major League Baseball pitcher John Smoltz by nine points, achieving a wire-to-wire win in this celebrity golf event.
Reflecting on his win, Pavelski expressed gratitude, stating, “I don’t know what to say, actually. But just an amazing week. This place is incredible. It means the world to me.”
Pavelski’s victory not only marks a personal triumph but also comes with a financial reward. He earned $150,000 from the tournament’s total purse of $750,000. Smoltz, who finished with a 28-point round, highlighted his competitive spirit: “I was trying to put heat on anybody, the top three. I was just trying to climb as many people as I could.”
Top Performers in Celebrity Event
Country music star Jake Owen claimed third place with a total of 62 points after a solid 21-point round. Former soccer player Taylor Twellman, who shared the second-round lead with Pavelski, finished fourth with 61 points, scoring 17 points in the final round. Last year’s champion, NBA star Stephen Curry, came in fifth with a total of 58 points, following a 23-point performance.
In contrast, former NBA star Charles Barkley struggled throughout the tournament, finishing in 69th place out of 90 competitors with a score of minus 17 points. The event showcased a blend of sporting skill and celebrity flair, further enhancing the reputation of the American Century Championship as a premier event in celebrity golf.
The tournament not only celebrates athleticism but also fosters a sense of community among the participants, making it a highlight on the summer sports calendar. As Pavelski takes home the trophy, he joins an elite group of past winners, reflecting the event’s prestigious standing in the world of celebrity sports.
